Lifted Wagon: 1986 Toyota Tercel 4WD

The Toyota Tercel has long been associated with the brand as its reliable, entry-level model. Like everything else that happened in the 80s, Toyota got a little crazy – let its hair down, just for a minute – and took this humble appliance and gave it a 4WD system. While I wasn’t old enough at the time to gauge consumer reactions, it’s clear that years later, many enthusiasts think this was a notable achievement. And now, you are starting to see clean, original wagons with the SR5 package and well-preserved cosmetics show up on major auction sites. However, finding one like this lifted 1986 model listed here on Facebook Marketplace is just as compelling, especially with those killer factory decals intact.

When Toyota introduced this model, it was not alone in the 4WD wagon category. Honda also dipped a toe in the all-weather wagon category, and while Subaru may be the GOAT of this space, there the Tercel and the Civic all-weather wagons were just infinitely cooler. Perhaps it’s because the Toyota came with a six-speed manual and those cool checkerboard cloth seats. Or maybe it was the optional inclinometer gauge pod that could sit on top of the dash. In the Honda’s case, it was the classic red paint scheme with the white-painted steel wheels that made it cool for me. Either way, these wagons had their own style and it was hard to resist if you enjoyed winter weather.

The Tercel shown here has gotten some tasty upgrades courtesy of an owner who clearly loves the idea of a go-anywhere wagon. It sports a 2-inch lift, aftermarket wheels and tires, and spacers that push the rollers out beyond the fenders. It’s a matter of subjective opinion whether you like that look or not, but to my mind’s eye, it works. The dashboard is lacking the optional inclinometer, and if I owned one of these rigs, I’d pay the $200 or so they’re getting on eBay for one. The seats appear to be in good shape, and most importantly, the Tercel sports the much-preferred manual gearbox. When 4WD is engaged, the transmission offers drivers an extra-low gear for traversing through slippery terrain.

I like this photo because it shows that the inner jams are rust-free, along with the rest of the exterior. It’s hard to say whether the decals are original or not, but at least they’re there. These were not powerful rigs, as the standard engine – a humble 1.5-liter SOHC inline-four  – produced around 62 horsepower and 76 lb.-ft. of torque. However, the joy in owning one of these is not in going fast but in going where others can’t, especially in an underpowered Japanese wagon. You won’t embarrass every Jeep owner you meet, but you may very well surprise a few of them. Thanks to Barn Finds reader Mitchell G. for the tip.